WTVP serves Central Illinois is
many critical ways. Most significantly, our programming is an essential part of life for so many citizens. It
is their only source for world-class arts and culture, thoughtful and unbiased reporting necessary for
participatory democracy, exposure to skills that keep brain and spirit engaged in life-long learning, and
trusted educational content for children. With 3 channels running 24 hours a day, WTVP provides 26,280 hours
of quality television—free of charge—to the citizens of central Illinois in all or part of 22 counties.

The average American taxpayer contributes about $1.35 annually to public broadcasting—a
relatively modest federal investment. However, WTVP’s portion of this federal funding counts for approximately
22% of our annual budget. The absence of this critical seed money would cripple the station and its ability
to produce and provide programming of local interest.